Over the summer, our Trustees and I worked with a consultant from ASCL (Association of School and College Leaders) to put together a recruitment pack for the post of CEO (Trust Lead). This ensured the advert for the post went live on Wednesday, 3 September.
Following the publication of the vacancy, there were 26 expressions of interest in the role and 14 potential applicants have either met with or spoken to me personally and/or Mark Lees, Chair of Trustees, to learn more about our Trust.
‘This is a pleasing pool and I am confident that we will have some excellent candidates applying for the post.’ Mark Lees, Chair of Trustees
The closing date passed on Wednesday, 24 September. As the outgoing postholder, I have now stepped away from the process. I understand Trustees have received 21 applications. Trustees are currently in the process of shortlisting. They continue to be supported by the consultant from ASCL. Interviews for the post of CEO (Trust Lead) are scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 7, and Wednesday, 8 October.
Mark Lees has confirmed that the interviews will be held mainly at Cirencester Deer Park School and that our Headteachers and Chairs of Governors have been invited to be involved in Day 1.
‘As part of the Day 1 process, we will ask each candidate to travel to one of our schools to lead a staff briefing, which all staff will be invited too. We will then seek your views on the briefing and this will help to inform the appointing panel.’ Mark Lees, Chair of Trustees.
The appointing panel is made up of Mark Lees, Chair of Trustees, Martin Doidge (Vice-Chair of the Trust Board), James Barker (Trustee), and Jane Borgeaud (Director of Education, Diocese of Gloucester). Trustee, Rebecca Lillington, will also be involved on Day 1.
Mark Lees has advised that following the appointment, and when appropriate, he will inform the community of our Trust of the outcome. We are hoping that the new Trust Lead (CEO) will be able to attend our joint in-service training day on Friday, 28 November.
Chiquita Henson
Trust Lead (CEO)
September 2025
